Thomas Hardy: The Woodlanders

23. CHAPTER XXIII. (continued)

"Well, well--I didn't mean to. But I have mentioned as much to your father, who has made no objection; and why should you?"

She gave way, deeming the point one on which she ought to allow sentiment to give way to policy--if there were indeed policy in his plan. But she was indefinably depressed as they walked homeward.